Due to the bulkiness of the ammunition, only fourteen rounds could be carried internally, of which one was already loaded, with another in the loading tray. The rest were carried in two storage racks.
To help with the loading of ammunition into the vehicle, a loading crane was fitted at the rear of the superstructure next to the loading hatch. Even then, the entire five-man crew had to help with the loading.
Reminds me somewhat of loading torpedos on 688 class submarines, which was an interesting endeavor.
ReplyDeleteIt's a big a$$ mortar on tracks. Boom boom, out go the lights.
ReplyDeleteI want one for Christmas.
ReplyDeleteAH SO! The Imperial Japanese army had a non-mobile version:
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SS257sgleG0
Check out the German heavy tank called the Maus. Too big to be built in time.
ReplyDeleteNo, look up the "Ratte". Design Study for a 2,000+ Ton Tank, fitted with a Dual-12-inch Gun Turret from a Heavy Cruiser. Powered by 2 Diesel Submarine Engines and Electric Motors.
ReplyDeletep.s. the Maus was Diesel-Electric, too.